Strategic framework update

 

I write to share an update on the strategic framework implementation process and to express my gratitude to all of you who have participated in the effort to date. Through thoughtful input, listening, and engaging in the process, YOU are bringing the strategic framework to life. I am also deeply grateful to Yousuf George and Karen Kuppinger for their tireless leadership and stewardship of our collective progress, to the Steering Committee for their visionary guidance, and the Working Groups for their time and dedication.  

Through this collaborative process, we have set the course and started the work of establishing priorities, honing our focus, and shaping our initiatives. Each initiative represents an investment to move Nazareth forward — to compel students’ choice of Nazareth and make progress for future generations of students who seek Nazareth’s transformative education. 

There are three significant initiatives taking shape that I’d like to call your attention to.  

• Our inaugural Changemakers In Action Grants: From a pool of inspiring proposals to support learning to be an equity-minded changemaker, a Nazareth committee chose 12 Changemakers in Action projects to receive grant funding in 2022. These projects are collaborative endeavors that include students, staff, and faculty. These innovative projects embody the very best of our learning community and demonstrate how changemaking and an equity mindset can be integrated across the College.   
• The continuation of our movement to be an anti-racist and inclusive campus community that educates equity-minded leaders. While a number of diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives are actively in progress across campus, the newly-formed Shared Equity Leadership Team will be drafting our next-generation plan to guide further action to align with our mission and vision. Look for opportunities for engagement in the spring semester. 
• A bold vision for a new student center and learning commons that places our students and their belongingness, activities, and well-being right in the center of our campus, as they should be. This vibrant, dynamic space, on the footprint of the Shults Center and perhaps integrating Wilmot Library, will be a destination for connection, engagement, and collaboration among students, faculty, staff, community partners, and others. An inclusive design process will begin in January. 

I invite you to read and reflect on these and more initiative highlights — all reasons to remain hopeful and inspired by the promise of progress with student learning and engagement at the forefront. It is through the deep commitment of our faculty and staff that Nazareth continues our mission of educating whole persons and inspiring courageous changemakers.